I had the exact same problem that was reported by "Rebecca" on 01/23 (http://usacomplaints.com/electronic-manufacturers/bitdefender/bitdefender-misleading-rebate-fa15d.htm)
We submitted all the information requested in the rebate forms, but three weeks later recieved a letter from Bitdefender claiming that we did not include the "Proof of Purchase" information. Even though I watched my husband cut off both the top and bottom flaps on the box (which contained the UPC code) and include the original receipt in the envelope, they are still saying we did not give them enough information to verify that we purchased the product. He even had me verify that he was sending the correct flap to the correct place because the instructions were somewhat vague on the difference between the "Proof of Purchase" and "UPC Code" and which one should go where. It all looked correct to me.
Since Bitdefender requires that you send in the original copies of all documentation required, you are left with nothing to prove that you actually purchased the product. They know this, and this is where the SCAM comes in to play. How do you fight this when they are in possession of all your proof? BitDefender has my ORIGINAL receipt and both ORIGINAL box tops, so what's the problem? Obviously someone bought the product or we wouldn't be able to produce the originals. Why make something so simple, complicated? Is there a difference between the UPC code on the box and the one on the inside of the box that prevents them from honoring their own rebate? I don't understand what more they could be asking for. We still have the box (missing the flaps), since we realized this would be the only shred of evidence we'd have left to prove we own the product if it came to that. But obviously this is just as useless as the original receipt, UPC code and proof of purchase from the original box.
The only reason we bought Bitdefender was because of the rebate offer. The rebate made the product cheaper than most of the others we were considering. Boy, how wrong we were. This purchase was a mistake, and we will go back to using Norton Antivirus as soon as my Bitdefender license expires. If Bitdefender really doesn't want to give rebates to it's customers, then they should stop the false advertisements and complicated rebate forms. If your looking for an inexpensive anti-virus, please buy one from a company that honors it's rebates.
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